Grumman F-14A Tomcat

When I saw it I had to have it. This is the best kit I have ever built. Tamiya has out done themselves with this one. So lets get started. PRO'S: First thing you will notice is the instruction sheet and the decals. It comes with a large instruction book that takes you in a different direction then normal. But once you start building it, it all comes together. Study the instructions and decide before you start what ordnance you want and which squadron you want. Two sheets of decals and they went on perfect. Half of one is just for the ordnance. This makes them look so real, that they stand out. Plus a color sheet with 3 US Navy squadrons & 1 Iran. Be prepared to buy some extra paints you might not have. The color detail in the cockpit makes a difference. The wings can be sweep in or out, canopy can be open or closed, ladder and refueling probe open or closed. The detail in the cockpit and wheel wells is excellent. Recessed panel lines and access doors are perfect. Even piano door hinges. Two pilots are also added. Every thing fit together perfect. Did not have to trim or sand any extra flashing on the parts. Never used any filler at the joints. Clear parts are perfect. Did not have to dip them in floor polish to make them shine. Masking tape for the canopy comes with the kit and they fit perfect. I used testor acrylic flat black wash (79413) in all the panel lines and it made the detail pop out and gave it a little dirty look. I spent 8 years in the Navy and planes don't look perfect all the time. Except after being washed. Done my share. CON'S: The only thing I saw wrong was that the kit came with decal seat belts instead of PE. But you can add some. When I got this kit I decided that I was not going to rush this build. It took me 8 months to complete with worth every second. All my other kits look so plan now. I recommend this kit for experienced builders only.

This is the best F14 you will probably ever find in 48th. It is very well engineered. You think out of all those parts something would give trouble, but no. it falls together like a dream. This kit will make you look like a pro. several options for armaments and decals, and with the abundance of aftermarket decals you could build any plane you want.

I highly recommend building this kit after building Tamiya’s F-14D. The unused weapons from the F-14D will allow you to completely customize a VF84 Jolly Rogers. Tamiya’s cockpit detail and overall fit are a tribute to one of the greatest aircraft.